Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogobig.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Super Joystiq Podcast 049 Live: Splinter Cell Blacklist, Don't Starve, Metro Last Light]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/super-joystiq-podcast-049-live-splinter-cell-blacklist-dont-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/super-joystiq-podcast-049-live-splinter-cell-blacklist-dont-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/super-joystiq-podcast-049-live-splinter-cell-blacklist-dont-s/#comments

Update: The live show is over. Watch the replay above!

This week on the Super Joystiq Podcast, the team tackles the hard subjects to the ground and interrogates them. Dave discusses going hands-on with Spies vs. Mercs multiplayer in Splinter Cell: Blacklist, Xav dives into the war-torn world of Metro: Last Light and Jess tries to survive in Don't Starve.

Be here for the live broadcast at 4:00 p.m. ET!

JoystiqSuper Joystiq Podcast 049 Live: Splinter Cell Blacklist, Don't Starve, Metro Last Light originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dont-StarveMetro-Last-Lightmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3splinter-cell-blacklistwii-uxboxThu, 09 May 2013 16:12:00 EST<![CDATA[NHL 14 cover vote goes to the sweet sixteen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/nhl-14-cover-vote-goes-to-the-sweet-sixteen/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/nhl-14-cover-vote-goes-to-the-sweet-sixteen/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/nhl-14-cover-vote-goes-to-the-sweet-sixteen/#commentsNHL 14 cover vote goes to the next round EA Sports has announced the final sixteen players that have advanced to the next round of voting for NHL 14's cover. Each of the remaining players are lumped into a bracket format, competing head-to-head until the final match-up is decided and revealed during the 2013 Stanley Cup Final.

According to EA, more than 12 million votes have been cast in the competition's first two rounds, "with daily vote totals up nearly 70% over the NHL 13 Cover Vote Campaign."

Fans signed into their EA account can vote an unlimited number of times during this round until May 12 at 11:59pm ET. Votes can be doubled on Thursdays on Twitter and Instagram by using specific hashtags for each of the remaining players.

NHL 14 launches in North America on September 10, 2013, and worldwide on September 13. My expert recommendations can be found in the image above.

JoystiqNHL 14 cover vote goes to the sweet sixteen originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cover-VoteEAEA-SportsHockeymicrosoftNHLnhl-14playstationps3Vote-for-a-Maple-Leafs-PlayerxboxMon, 06 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pacific Rim game tie-in takes one more giant step toward launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/pacific-rim-game-tie-in-takes-one-more-giant-step-toward-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/pacific-rim-game-tie-in-takes-one-more-giant-step-toward-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/pacific-rim-game-tie-in-takes-one-more-giant-step-toward-launch/#commentsPacific Rim video game stuff extravaganza Japanese developer Yuke's is one step closer to providing the world with a behemoth brawler based on Guillermo del Toro's coming film Pacific Rim. On Friday, Australia's Office of Film and Literature Classification rated the game for release, listing moderate impact themes and violence, as well as online play for the tie-in. In March, Yuke's announced it had acquired the rights to the film [PDF].

Screenshots posted in a NeoGAF thread suggest the title will be a fighting game - a good fit with the film's premise. Yuke's also developed a game tie-in for the Hugh Jackman vehicle Real Steel, which launched on the Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network to unfavorable reviews.

Platforms for the Pacific Rim title have not been revealed; however, a box shot image on NeoGAF suggests that, like Real Steel, the Pacific Rim game tie-in will launch on digital distribution platforms.

Guillermo del Toro's Pacific Rim explores the near-future conflict between human-controlled robots and massive monsters hell-bent on waging war on humanity and its memories of Neon Genesis Evangelion. The film arrives on July 12 and looks so awesome.

[Image via NeoGAF]

JoystiqPacific Rim game tie-in takes one more giant step toward launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Pacific-RimYukesMon, 06 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heads-off display: Oculus Rift experiment puts players in a guillotine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/heads-off-display-oculus-rift-experiment-puts-players-in-a-guil/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/heads-off-display-oculus-rift-experiment-puts-players-in-a-guil/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/heads-off-display-oculus-rift-experiment-puts-players-in-a-guil/#comments

An Oculus Rift-enabled experiment to come out of the Exile Game Jam in Vallekilde, Denmark, puts players on the chopping block of a guillotine in a title dubbed Disunion.

Developed in two days by the warped and creative trio of Erkki Trummal, André Berlemont and Morten Burnjberg, Disunion's effect is further amplified by a well-timed strike to the player's neck as the guillotine performs its duty. Mean, but hilarious shenanigans ensue!

Disunion is available for download to those with Oculus Rift units, but note that hitting yourself in the back of the head as the blade touches down will not provide the same effect. It's just weird.

JoystiqHeads-off display: Oculus Rift experiment puts players in a guillotine originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DisunionExile-Game-JamOculus-RiftpcMon, 06 May 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Internal Microsoft memo outlines 'always-on' connectivity for next Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/report-internal-microsoft-memo-outlines-always-on-connectivit/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/report-internal-microsoft-memo-outlines-always-on-connectivit/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/06/report-internal-microsoft-memo-outlines-always-on-connectivit/#commentsReport Internal Microsoft memo outlines 'alwayson' connectivity for next Xbox An internal Microsoft memo regarding the "always-on" connectivity of the next-generation Xbox reveals the hardware manufacturer's plans for modern connectivity issues, Ars Technica reports. Microsoft's primary focus: specific console functions will "just work" regardless of connection status.

"There are a number of scenarios that our users expect to work without an Internet connection, and those should 'just work' regardless of their current connection status. Those include, but are not limited to: playing a Blu-ray disc, watching live TV, and yes playing a single player game."

The memo also adds that Durango - the code name for Microsoft's next-gen console - is "designed to deliver the future of entertainment while engineered to be tolerant of today's Internet."

Though the supposed memo does much to assuage fears the next Xbox system will be useless when in an offline environment, it still does not detail the depths of the console's offline functionality. Rumors of the console's always-on connectivity have persisted, leading one Microsoft employee to express his personal opinion on the matter before leaving the company after a public statement from Microsoft, which distanced itself from the comments.

Microsoft's next Xbox is scheduled to be revealed on May 21 at an event in Redmond, Washington. Joystiq has contacted Microsoft for comment regarding the supposed memo, but has yet to hear back at the time of publishing.

JoystiqReport: Internal Microsoft memo outlines 'always-on' connectivity for next Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 May 2013 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Always-OnDurangoMicrosoftXbox-720Xbox-NextMon, 06 May 2013 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Ghosts announced; next-gen powered by new engine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/call-of-duty-ghosts-announced-next-gen-powered-by-new-engine/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/call-of-duty-ghosts-announced-next-gen-powered-by-new-engine/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/call-of-duty-ghosts-announced-next-gen-powered-by-new-engine/#comments
Confirming rumors, Activision has revealed the next game in its billion-dollar shooter franchise, titled Call of Duty: Ghosts. The military-based FPS will arrive on the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 on November 5, and on "next-generation platforms" on an unspecified date. No Wii U version was announced.

A press release reveals the next-gen version of Ghosts will sport an all-new engine "from the developer that started it all, Infinity Ward." The series has been using the same engine, with numerous annual modifications, since 2005.

Saying it would have been "safe" for Infinity Ward to develop a fourth entry in the Modern Warfare series, Mark Rubin, executive producer of developer Infinity Ward, noted his team saw the next generation of consoles as the "perfect opportunity" to start a new chapter for the franchise. "So we're building a new sub-brand, a new engine, and a lot of new ideas and experiences for our players," he added.

Activision will debut the next-gen version of Call of Duty: Ghosts - and revealing its new engine to the world - during Microsoft's upcoming Xbox 'Next Generation' event on May 21.

Ghosts features an "all-new gameplay experience built on an entirely new story, setting and cast of characters," the press release further detailed.

An onslaught of additional info and explosion-filled marketing is expected closer to E3 2013.

Update: The website theghostsarereal.com - designed to look like an official Activision site - lists Wii U as a platform for the next Call of Duty title. Activision tells Joystiq the website is not owned or operated by the publisher. No Wii U version has been announced.

Gallery: Call of Duty: Ghosts (Key Art)

Continue reading Call of Duty: Ghosts announced; next-gen powered by new engine

JoystiqCall of Duty: Ghosts announced; next-gen powered by new engine originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionCall-of-Dutycall-of-duty-ghostsInfinity-Wardmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 01 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Seven-day FPS challenger Receiver now out on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/seven-day-fps-challenger-receiver-now-out-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/seven-day-fps-challenger-receiver-now-out-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/seven-day-fps-challenger-receiver-now-out-on-steam/#comments

Receiver, a detailed first-person shooter developed as part of a seven-day challenge for PC and Mac, has found its way on Steam. In the game players explore a minimalist world in search of clues to unravel a conspiracy.

Well, if you survive an onslaught of deadly turrets and drones, that is. Taking cues from roguelikes, players must start from the beginning of the world - in search of the evidence that generates in random areas - upon death. Developed by Wolfire Games, Receiver explores the detailed mechanics behind managing and handling a Colt 1911 A1 pistol. Players must load each bullet into clips, manage a safety, compensate for recoil and more.

Receiver can be a tense experience, as I learned in a livestream with the game when it first launched in June of last year. The Steam version is available for 20% off its regular price of $4.99 - priced to move at $3.99 - until May 6.

JoystiqSeven-day FPS challenger Receiver now out on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macpcReceiverWolfire-GamesWed, 01 May 2013 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kentucky Route Zero 'Act 2' delayed to mid-May]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/kentucky-route-zero-act-2-delayed-to-mid-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/kentucky-route-zero-act-2-delayed-to-mid-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/kentucky-route-zero-act-2-delayed-to-mid-may/#commentsKentucky Route Zero act 2 delayed into May "Our goal for Act 2 has been to release it by the end of April," a monthly newsletter sent to Kentucky Route Zero players notes, before announcing the second episode of the five-part series has been pushed to mid-May. No exact release date has been specified.

Developer Cardboard Computer says that "exciting but unexpected work" setting up the adventure game's distribution, troubleshooting issues for users, and venturing to the IGF have forced the team to push the release of the second act by a few weeks.

"It's looking really good though, and we're anxious to have it out in the world." To tease the release, Cardboard Computer will be posting "a small/weird screenshot from Act 2" on its Twitter and Facebook pages daily, the first of which is available above.

Kentucky Route Zero launched its first act in January 2013, before finding its way on Steam in February. For more on the game that looks out of this world, make sure to read Joystiq's detailed Indie Pitch feature with the developer.

Gallery: Kentucky Route Zero



JoystiqKentucky Route Zero 'Act 2' delayed to mid-May originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cardboard-ComputerDelaykentucky-route-zeromacpcTue, 30 Apr 2013 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Hackers claim to have developed Wii U mod chip, Nintendo aware and prepared]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/hackers-claim-to-have-developed-wii-u-mod-chip-nintendo-aware-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/hackers-claim-to-have-developed-wii-u-mod-chip-nintendo-aware-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/30/hackers-claim-to-have-developed-wii-u-mod-chip-nintendo-aware-a/#commentsHackers claim to have developed Wii U mod chip, Nintendo A hacker group claims they have designed a modification chip that circumvents security measures on Nintendo's Wii U. In a post on the group's website - which Joystiq has decided against linking to - the modders say they have "completely reversed the Wii U drive authentication, disk encryption, file system, and everything else" needed for its most recent chip. The group had previously been known for developing a similar chip for the Nintendo Wii.

In the face of such claims, Nintendo has responded by maintaining the company is prepared to combat the most recent threat of piracy - a threat that plagues the video game industry. "Nintendo is aware that a hacking group claims to have compromised Wii U security; however, we have no reports of illegal Wii U games nor unauthorized applications playable on the system while in Wii U mode," the hardware manufacturer told CVG in a statement.

Nintendo says it continues to monitor any threats to its business and will take "the necessary legal steps to prevent the facilitation of piracy."

The development and distribution of mod chips is a murky legal issue, due to differences in international law. The website that houses the group behind the claim was registered in Australia, which previously ruled that the sale of mod chips are illegal.

Despite the claim, the group has released no evidence that a chip is functioning as described, nor that it actually exists.

JoystiqHackers claim to have developed Wii U mod chip, Nintendo aware and prepared originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HackersnintendoPiracywii-uTue, 30 Apr 2013 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U system update 3.0 released, adds automatic background installing and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/wii-u-system-update-3-0-released-adds-automatic-background-inst/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/wii-u-system-update-3-0-released-adds-automatic-background-inst/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/wii-u-system-update-3-0-released-adds-automatic-background-inst/#comments Wii U system update 30 released, adds automatic background installing and more
Nintendo has launched a system software update for the Wii U, adding a new standby function to "download and install software while the system is powered off" and automatic background installation of eShop downloads.

The new software - bringing the Wii U to version 3.0 - also makes system setting changes, which include the ability to "transfer and/or copy between two USB storage devices" and "to select multiple software titles when transferring, copying, or deleting data." The Miiverse channel now supports the Wii Remote, Wii U Pro Controller and the Wii Classic Controller.

The complete list of changes, some of which improve "stability and usability," can be found after the break.

Continue reading Wii U system update 3.0 released, adds automatic background installing and more

JoystiqWii U system update 3.0 released, adds automatic background installing and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Firmwarenintendowii-uWii-U-3-0Thu, 25 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Joystiq Podcast 047 Live: Star Trek, Monaco, ANNE [Update: Watch the replay!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/super-joystiq-podcast-047-live-star-trek-monaco-anne/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/super-joystiq-podcast-047-live-star-trek-monaco-anne/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/25/super-joystiq-podcast-047-live-star-trek-monaco-anne/#comments

Update: The live show has ended, watch the replay above.

In this week's live segment of the Super Joystiq Podcast, the crew boldly goes where no gamer should: the world of the Digital Extremes-developed movie tie-in game Star Trek. In more comforting excursions, we're exploring the world of ANNE and planning our biggest heists in Monaco. We also have another giveaway this week, so tune in to discover our offerings and how you can get hella free stuff.

The show begins at 3:30pm Eastern, 12:30pm Pacific.

Make sure to subscribe to the Joystiq YouTube channel for your shot at winning weekly podcast giveaways.

JoystiqSuper Joystiq Podcast 047 Live: Star Trek, Monaco, ANNE [Update: Watch the replay!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Thu, 25 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Flixster comes to Xbox 360 with Ultraviolet Collection support]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/flixster-comes-to-xbox-360-with-ultraviolet-collection-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/flixster-comes-to-xbox-360-with-ultraviolet-collection-support/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/16/flixster-comes-to-xbox-360-with-ultraviolet-collection-support/#comments Flixster comes to Xbox 360 with Ultraviolet Collection supportThe Warner Bros.-owned movie destination app Flixster has come to Xbox 360 with a new Kinect-enabled application available to Xbox Live Gold subscribers. Flixster on Xbox allows users to buy and rent films, access "the latest" film review scores from the critic aggregator source Rotten Tomatoes and look up local showtimes in the most clunky way possible ... on your television!

As part of the Warner Family, Flixster on Xbox 360 also allows users access their existing UltraViolet movie collection. The app is available to download in select regions and only to those with a continued appreciation of DRM.

JoystiqFlixster comes to Xbox 360 with Ultraviolet Collection support originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppFlixsterKinectmicrosoftxboxXbox-Live-MarketplaceTue, 16 Apr 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft Montpellier artist challenges dismissal over caricatures of management]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/ubisoft-montpellier-artist-challenges-dismissal-over-caricatures/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/ubisoft-montpellier-artist-challenges-dismissal-over-caricatures/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/ubisoft-montpellier-artist-challenges-dismissal-over-caricatures/#comments Ubisoft Montepllier artist challenges unfair dismissal over caricatures of managementAfter being dismissed for illustrating caricatures of his Ubisoft Montpellier managers, artist Alain 'Gaston' Rémy has decided to challenge the terms of the December 2012 decision.

In a report filed by France 3's news desk, the former Ubisoft employee says that the illustrations were done for humor and notes none of the caricatures were ever made public, according to a translation of the original story. Working with Ubisoft for a total of six years, Gaston's primary focus at the studio was working on the publisher's Rabbids franchise. A French labor court is expected to make its decision on the matter on July 26.

Gaston's library of work includes a slew of comics and animation projects, all with an embellished humorous style, as seen above.

JoystiqUbisoft Montpellier artist challenges dismissal over caricatures of management originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alain-RemyGastonLawsuitUbisoft-MontpellierFri, 12 Apr 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Decaying Dark Souls and an interest killed with kindness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/decaying-dark-souls-and-an-interest-killed-with-kindness/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/decaying-dark-souls-and-an-interest-killed-with-kindness/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/decaying-dark-souls-and-an-interest-killed-with-kindness/#comments Welcome to The Level Grind, a column that asks questions about game design and industry culture from the perspective of a game player.

Decayed Souls and interest killed with kindness
A few weeks ago I wrote about Dark Souls and how my initial impression of the game was, for the lack of a better term, "wrong." I'd given the game another shot after some convincing from a friend, and since the fanatical position on the game's brilliance had transitioned from boil to simmer.

It's easy to say I fell in love with Dark Souls, yet weeks have passed and I haven't played the game at all. Though my time was focused on other games for review, I wondered why the urge to delve deeper into From Software's complex world had subsided after my gushing editorial. What I've come to realize is that kindness is to blame.

Gallery: Dark Souls (Artorias of the Abyss)

Continue reading Decaying Dark Souls and an interest killed with kindness

JoystiqDecaying Dark Souls and an interest killed with kindness originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-soulsmicrosoftOpinionpcplaystationproject-darkps3The-Level-GrindxboxFri, 12 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Ops 2 'Uprising' DLC adds new maps, 'zombie adventure' on April 16]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/black-ops-2-uprising-dlc-adds-new-maps-zombie-adventure-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/black-ops-2-uprising-dlc-adds-new-maps-zombie-adventure-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/black-ops-2-uprising-dlc-adds-new-maps-zombie-adventure-on/#comments

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 is about to deal with an uprising. The next DLC pack for the shooter - dubbed 'Uprising' if you didn't catch it - lands on April 16 on the Xbox 360 and includes five maps and one new "zombie adventure."

New maps for the content pack include Magma, Encore, Vertigo, and Studio - all teased in the video above. "Uprising is the most fan-centric DLC package we've ever created," David Vonderhaar, game design director at Treyarch claims in the video.

Adding to that fan service is "a reimagining of the classic map Firing Range," and a new "zombie adventure" called 'Mob of the Dead.' In the new zombie story, players are trapped in a zombie-infested Alcatraz as four prohibition-era mobsters, played by Hollywood badasses: Ray Liotta, Chazz Palminteri, Joey Pantoliano and Michael Madsen. In a "new twist" on the zombie mode, "if a player becomes an unfortunate victim, 'Mob of the Dead's' new feature known as 'Purgatory' sends players into the afterlife." No further details, beyond new challenges and a "unique experience," were revealed about the zombie mode's 'Purgatory' feature.

PlayStation 3 and PC players should expect the standard one-month wait time for their shot at the content, due to the timed-exclusivity agreement between Microsoft and Activision.

Continue reading Black Ops 2 'Uprising' DLC adds new maps, 'zombie adventure' on April 16

JoystiqBlack Ops 2 'Uprising' DLC adds new maps, 'zombie adventure' on April 16 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 13:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activisioncall-of-duty-black-ops-2DLCDownloadable-ContentmicrosoftTreyarchUprising-DLCxboxThu, 04 Apr 2013 13:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Torment: Tides of Numenera delayed 'a few months' beyond Dec. 2014 release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/torment-tides-of-numenera-delayed-a-few-months-beyond-dec-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/torment-tides-of-numenera-delayed-a-few-months-beyond-dec-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/torment-tides-of-numenera-delayed-a-few-months-beyond-dec-2014/#comments

With just under three days left in its highly successful Torment: Tides of Numenera Kickstarter campaign, developer InXile has revealed the spiritual successor to PlaneScape: Torment has been delayed.

Originally scheduled to launch in December 2014, a recent update on the project now confirms the team requires "a few months" past the planned date; tormenting fans with a wait into 2015.

"We purposely designed Torment to be modular so that, if we had additional funding, we could easily expand upon the game in ways that would make sense. Your support has exceeded our expectations. It is clear to us that to create as high quality a final product as we desire, and as you deserve, we're going to want more time than we had in our original schedule," Project Lead Kevin Saunders wrote in a Kickstarter update.

Saunders says that thanks to fans providing "enough resources to increase Torment's scope and quality bar," the team will use funds beyond the initial request of $900K to allow more time for "design, [iteration], polish and more."

Currently, Torment: Tides of Numenera's crowd-funding support rests at over $3.3 million. The developer has also added a number of stretch goals and items to acquire with a few extra dollars, including a digital comic from The Kingkiller Chronicle author Patrick Rothfuss.

JoystiqTorment: Tides of Numenera delayed 'a few months' beyond Dec. 2014 release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DelayInXile-EntertainmentKickstarterpctorment-tides-of-numeneraTue, 02 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension's 'Trial of Archimedes' patch out now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/god-of-war-ascension-patch-to-tweak-trial-of-archimedes-diffi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/god-of-war-ascension-patch-to-tweak-trial-of-archimedes-diffi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/god-of-war-ascension-patch-to-tweak-trial-of-archimedes-diffi/#comments God of War Ascension patch to tweak 'Trial of Archimedes' difficulty unleashedA promised patch to adjust the difficulty found during a late game combat sequence in God of War: Ascension has been deployed. Santa Monica Studio Community Strategist Aaron Kaufman posted on the PlayStation Blog to explained the changes introduced by the game's patch.

Found in Chapter 28 of the game's single-player campaign, the 'Trial of Archimedes' pits Kratos against waves of enemies as he ascends a tower toward Ascension's final chapter. The tweak will now provide players across all difficulties with a slew of "green health orbs and a nominal amount of blue magic orbs" after each successive wave, of which there are three.

"In every God of War game, establishing a well-paced difficulty ramp towards the end of the game is paramount to us. Based on player response, the degree of challenge offered here was short of our goal of being perfectly balanced," Kaufman wrote.

The 1.03 patch also adds new, visual multiplayer customization options called "Marks" that players can obtain based on a number of criteria, including selected allegiance. For more details, check the PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension's 'Trial of Archimedes' patch out now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionPatchplaystationps3Santa-Monica-StudioSCEAUpdateTue, 26 Mar 2013 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Papo & Yo coming to Steam on April 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/papo-and-yo-coming-to-steam-on-april-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/papo-and-yo-coming-to-steam-on-april-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/papo-and-yo-coming-to-steam-on-april-18/#comments The emotional journey of Vander Caballero's Papo & Yo is coming to Steam. Speaking with Game Informer, Caballero revealed that the game, which was inspired by his life experience dealing with the struggles of parental abuse, would arrive on Valve's digital distribution platform on April 18.

Papo & Yo originally launched on the PlayStation Network in August 2012 and was released with the help of Sony's Pub Fund. The Joystiq review noted the gameplay in Papo & Yo was lacking, but felt it to succeed on an emotional and autobiographical level.

Caballero told Game Informer that he still receives letters from others dealing with similar abuse and hopes a PC version will encourage more people to find ways to cope.

Update: An original version of this story cited SCEA as the publisher of Papo & Yo. The game was self-published by developer Minority and released with the help from Sony's Pub Fund. The story has been corrected.

JoystiqPapo & Yo coming to Steam on April 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Minority-Incpapo-and-yopcSteamTue, 26 Mar 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Unlock BioShock Infinite's '1999 Mode' early with the Konami code]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/unlock-bioshock-infinites-1999-mode-early-with-the-konami-code/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/unlock-bioshock-infinites-1999-mode-early-with-the-konami-code/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/unlock-bioshock-infinites-1999-mode-early-with-the-konami-code/#comments Unlock BioShock Infinite's '1999 Mode' with the Konami codeWhen BioShock Infinite launches on PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 tomorrow, players can choose to unlock the game's difficult '1999 Mode' early by using a modern variation of the classic Konami code.

By default, Infinite only has three available difficulty settings: Easy, medium and hard, with the 1999 Mode - which tunes Irrational's latest game to a difficulty best suited for those looking for a classic shooter experience akin to System Shock 2's campaign - hidden away until the game is complete. If players decide they want an immediate challenge, using the Konami code will allow them to unlock it at any point.
  • On PC (with keyboardmouse): Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, (Cancel key), (Confirm key)
  • On Xbox: Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A
  • On PS3: Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, O, X
For more on BioShock Infinite make sure to read the Joystiq review, which called the next installment in the franchise "one of the best told stories of this generation."

JoystiqUnlock BioShock Infinite's '1999 Mode' early with the Konami code originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1999-Mode2K-Gamesbioshock-infiniteIrrational-Gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 25 Mar 2013 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock Infinite review: Of lions, lambs and liars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/bioshock-infinite-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/bioshock-infinite-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/bioshock-infinite-review/#comments BioShock Infinite review Of lions, lambs and liarsBioShock Infinite weaves a complicated and intricate plot around ever-changing variables. Not only is it an evolving story that sees protagonist Booker DeWitt and the mysterious Elizabeth grow closer, but Irrational's latest deals with the hubris of a society built above the clouds, its ideals inflated with so much of the same hot air that propels it above the world below.

Though it touches on topics revolving around racism, religion, rebellion and revenge, these themes take a backseat to BioShock Infinite's primary topic: Love. Whether it be a society in love with its own patented brand of American Exceptionalism, a leader in love with his own self-appointed immortal image, or a pair of people that come together to care for one another, BioShock Infinite is a love story.

And it's an easy story to fall in love with.

Gallery: BioShock Infinite (03/25/2013)

Continue reading BioShock Infinite review: Of lions, lambs and liars

JoystiqBioShock Infinite review: Of lions, lambs and liars originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamesbioshock-infiniteIrrational-Gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 25 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Joystiq Podcast 043 Live: ARMA 3, Metro Last Light, StarCraft 2 Heart of the Swarm [Update: Watch the replay!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/super-joystiq-podcast-043-live-arma-3-metro-last-light-starcraft-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/super-joystiq-podcast-043-live-arma-3-metro-last-light-starcraft-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/21/super-joystiq-podcast-043-live-arma-3-metro-last-light-starcraft-2/#comments

Update: The live show is over, watch the replay above!

This week on the live edition of the Super Joystiq Podcast, the team talks about a few games that have been taking up their time just before major industry events like GDC and PAX East.

Xav enters the realistic world of ARMA 3 and has some closing thoughts on Tomb Raider which Ludwig is also playing alongside God of War: Ascension and Metro: Last Light. On the strategic side of things, Mike Schramm gives his thoughts on the second installment in the StarCraft 2 trilogy, Heart of the Swarm.

For those looking to increase their own game collection, this week the team gives away three games to three lucky viewers: a PS3 copy of Black Ops 2, the Hitman: Absolution Professional Edition for PS3 and God of War: Ascension.

To enter to win, subscribe to our YouTube Channel and send us a private message with your name and email address with "Episode 43" in the subject line. Winners will be randomly selected and contacted next week.

What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. Please note that Joyswag may be in "used" condition. All winners of Joyswag are selected randomly. Only comments in the podcast post linked above will be entered in the random drawing.

For more info on our policy, along with rules and regulations associated will all giveaways, click here.

JoystiqSuper Joystiq Podcast 043 Live: ARMA 3, Metro Last Light, StarCraft 2 Heart of the Swarm [Update: Watch the replay!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JoyswagThu, 21 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NHL.com celebrates the 20th anniversary of NHL '94]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/nhl-com-celebrates-the-20th-anniversary-of-nhl-94/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/nhl-com-celebrates-the-20th-anniversary-of-nhl-94/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/nhl-com-celebrates-the-20th-anniversary-of-nhl-94/#comments NHLcom celebrates the 20th anniversary of NHL '94I'm Canadian, so bear with me for a moment.

EA's NHL '94 was an important landmark for the sport of hockey as the first game in the still-ongoing franchise to include authentic team names, logos and rosters. Twenty years later, it's still remembered as one of the best games of the generation by sports aficionados. Celebrating the game that helped form new fans and enhanced the experiences of existing ones, NHL.com has written a piece that deals with its legacy and how it has helped evolve the status of the sport and its players.

In it, former Chicago Blackhawks superstar Jeremy Roenick reveals that people, to this day, still mention his virtual representation's dominance on the ice. "Whatever the case may be, I would say one out of three people I meet mention '94 Sega," Roenick says.

The article continues with a look at how its highest-ranked players achieved cult status outside of the real-world sport. It's an interesting read for fans of the series, gamers that survived the 16-bit era, and sports fans looking to see how meaningful their favorite pastime can be in the digital era.

If you're American, substitute all mentions of hockey with football for maximum effectiveness. Or tennis, if that's your thing.

JoystiqNHL.com celebrates the 20th anniversary of NHL '94 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsHockeyWed, 20 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sniper Elite 3 'expected in 2014' on PS3, Xbox and next-gen platforms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/sniper-elite-3-expected-in-2014-on-ps3-xbox-and-next-gen-plat/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/sniper-elite-3-expected-in-2014-on-ps3-xbox-and-next-gen-plat/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/sniper-elite-3-expected-in-2014-on-ps3-xbox-and-next-gen-plat/#comments A third entry in the Sniper Elite series is coming to Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and next-gen platforms. That's according to a financial press release released in January by the parent company of 505 Games, the Milan-based Digital Bros. We asked 505 Games why everyone missed the fanfare for its new shooter.

"We were hoping the news would remain quiet within the Italian financial community until we could formally announce the game which we plan to do soon," a company representative told Joystiq. Sniper Elite 3 is "expected in 2014" from independent developer Rebellion, which owns the Sniper Elite franchise.

According to the original financial release [PDF], Sniper Elite 3 "will have an impact on the Group's revenues for FY 2013-2013 of 28.6 million Euros (approximately $37M USD)." The release states that Sniper Elite V2 - which launched in 2012 for the PC, Xbox 360, and PS3 - "gained worldwide success around 1.1 million copies and 28.6 million revenues sold since the April 2012 launch to the end of December."

Update: 505 Games has confirmed to Joystiq that Sniper Elite 3 is also in development for PC.

[Sniper Elite V2 pictured]

JoystiqSniper Elite 3 'expected in 2014' on PS3, Xbox and next-gen platforms originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Mar 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505-GamesDigital-Brosmicrosoftplaystationps3RebellionRebellion-DevelopmentsSniper-Elite-3xboxWed, 13 Mar 2013 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Getting Dark Souls all wrong]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/getting-dark-souls-all-wrong/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/getting-dark-souls-all-wrong/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/13/getting-dark-souls-all-wrong/#comments This is Making Time, a column about the games we've always wanted to play, and the games we've always wanted to play again.

Getting Dark Souls all wrong
When Dark Souls first launched in October 2011, I picked it up immediately. Though that statement may seem to be tied to my love of the game's spiritual predecessor, the truth is I've never touched Demon's Souls. It was the rampant fan excitement for a new entry in From Software's action-RPG that drew me in. But Dark Souls didn't resonate with me.

It was a combination of elements that made it easy for me to shelve my copy: the continuous discussion of its incredible difficulty and the "if you don't like it, you don't get it" attitude from fanatics. I never planned to play Dark Souls again.

Early this morning, I wrapped up my fifth hour of the game on Xbox 360, after putting three-plus hours in on the (only worth playing with fan-made fixes) PC version. Dark Souls' hooks are firmly embedded under my skin.

Gallery: Dark Souls (Gamescom 2011)

Continue reading Getting Dark Souls all wrong

JoystiqGetting Dark Souls all wrong originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-soulsFrom-Softwaremaking-timemicrosoftNamco-BandaiOpinionpcplaystationproject-darkps3xboxWed, 13 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Controversial God of War: Ascension trophy altered in upcoming patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/controversial-god-of-war-ascension-trophy-altered-in-upcoming-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/controversial-god-of-war-ascension-trophy-altered-in-upcoming-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/controversial-god-of-war-ascension-trophy-altered-in-upcoming-p/#comments DNPPatch changes controversial God of War Ascension trophy nameIn a statement sent to Joystiq, developer Sony Santa Monica has confirmed it will change the name of a controversial God of War: Ascension trophy in a patch that should be available alongside the game on Tuesday. Once the patch is applied, the name of the trophy will be "Bros Before Foes."

Originally named "Bros Before Hos" (as seen above), the trophy pops up soon after you help God of War's anti-hero, Kratos, brutally pummel a Fury, one of a trio of female antagonists in the game. (Though it's not a spoiler in light of the fact that Kratos beats everyone up, we've omitted the trophy description.) The change comes after negative reaction from early reviews to the jarring scene on and the attached award, which is perceived as misogynistic.

"We have created and will soon push out a patch for God of War: Ascension that alters the title of one of the game Trophies. The text was offensive to some members of our community and impacted their enjoyment of the game," Sony Santa Monica's statement noted. "We are endlessly committed to ensuring that our community can fully enjoy the experiences the team has created. As such, we've addressed the feedback and amended the Trophy in question."

Players will be instructed to download the update once God of War: Ascension has been inserted into an internet-connected PlayStation 3. No other aspect of the game is affected by the patch.

God of War: Ascension launches exclusively for the PlayStation 3 on March 12, 2013. For more on the game, check out Joystiq's review.

JoystiqControversial God of War: Ascension trophy altered in upcoming patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Controversygod-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3Santa-Monica-StudioSony-Santa-MonicaTrophiesTrophyMon, 11 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension review: Spectacle slipstream]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/god-of-war-ascension-review-spectacle-slipstream/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/god-of-war-ascension-review-spectacle-slipstream/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/god-of-war-ascension-review-spectacle-slipstream/#comments God of War Ascension review Everything that rises must convergeIn the race for spectacle, Sony Santa Monica's God of War franchise is constantly attempting to lap itself. From striking down a god to tearing down giants, it would seem there are few bodies - human, mythical being, god or behemoth - left for Kratos to shatter. In response to the angry protagonist's bloody evolution, Santa Monica has ventured to the only place left for Kratos to wage war: the past.

God of War: Ascension tells the story of Kratos before the events of his all-out war against Ares, the Greek God of War. But the narrative fabric woven throughout the franchise has begun to split, and Ascension's thinly constructed premise does little to enhance its characters in any meaningful way.

Its narrative issues aside, Ascension provides the distinct God of War flair required to eradicate all that stands in Kratos' way. Wielding a familiar set of chained blades, the popular anti-hero fluidly works his murder-pinwheel magic to perfection. The combat system, however, is less complicated than before, abandoning an arsenal of collected weaponry in favor of sticking with Kratos' trusty, sharp sidekicks. It's Kratos at his least materialistic, eschewing the pack-rat mentality of previous entries in favor of simplicity.

Gallery: God of War: Ascension (3/11/13)

Continue reading God of War: Ascension review: Spectacle slipstream

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension review: Spectacle slipstream originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3Santa-Monica-StudioSony-Santa-MonicaMon, 11 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Gearbox reveals next Borderlands 2 DLC includes a new vault hunter [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/gearbox-teases-new-borderlands-2-vault-hunter-dlc-at-sxsw/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/gearbox-teases-new-borderlands-2-vault-hunter-dlc-at-sxsw/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/gearbox-teases-new-borderlands-2-vault-hunter-dlc-at-sxsw/#comments

During a panel at SXSW, Borderlands 2 developer Gearbox has revealed a new vault hunter is coming to its RPG-fueled first-person shooter.

"Deep beneath Pandora, an experiment has escaped," a teaser for the DLC announced, revealing a silhouette of the new character decimating enemies. "Bandits beware, a new vault hunter is coming. More mayhem awaits."

Details for the second add-on character were scarce, much like the Pandora wasteland; however, the teaser (which you can view above) leads us to believe the new character is melee-focused. Gearbox franchise director Matt Armstrong wouldn't reveal the exact release for the DLC during the panel but added, "DLC is announced on a very tight schedule, and I don't think you'll have to wait long until you see that character."

Update: Gearbox has clarified to Joystiq that the upcoming DLC character is not included as part of the Borderlands 2 Season Pass. The story above has been edited.

JoystiqGearbox reveals next Borderlands 2 DLC includes a new vault hunter [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 21:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamesborderlands-2DLCDownloadable-ContentGearboxGearbox-Softwaremicrosoftpcplaystationps3SXSW-2013xboxFri, 08 Mar 2013 21:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Civ 4 lead's consulting gig at Stardock followed Zynga layoffs, still deciding his future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/civ-4-leads-consulting-gig-at-stardock-followed-zynga-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/civ-4-leads-consulting-gig-at-stardock-followed-zynga-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/civ-4-leads-consulting-gig-at-stardock-followed-zynga-layoffs/#comments Soren Johnson, lead designer of Civilization 4, has clarified his role at Stardock following company CEO Brad Wardell's announcement his studio had secured Johnson "at least for a while, to oversee the design of all our games."

Johnson tells Joystiq that Zynga's decision to shutter its Baltimore studio last week left him jobless and he quickly jumped into a role as a consultant at the developer famous for its Galactic Civilization franchise.

"Brad Wardell and I wanted to work together for a while, so I immediately started a consulting job with Stardock to help them with their current projects," Johnson said in an email to Joystiq. " I am, however, still trying to decide what my next permanent position is going to be."

Late last year Stardock launched Elemental: Fallen Enchantress, previously the studio released Rebellion, an expansion to the real-time strategy game Sins of a Solar Empire. Prior to his stint at Zynga, Johnson had worked at Maxis as part of the team that developed Spore.

JoystiqCiv 4 lead's consulting gig at Stardock followed Zynga layoffs, still deciding his future originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Soren-JohnsonStardockZyngaTue, 05 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield 3's 'End Game' DLC begins staggered deployment next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/battlefield-3s-end-game-dlc-begins-staggered-deployment-next/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/battlefield-3s-end-game-dlc-begins-staggered-deployment-next/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/battlefield-3s-end-game-dlc-begins-staggered-deployment-next/#comments

DICE has revealed its plan of attack, announcing on its Battlefield blog the release schedule for End Game, the final piece of downloadable content for Battlefield 3.

PlayStation 3 players with 'Battlefield Premium' accounts will see the content on Tuesday, March 5, as part of the subscription. For premium users on Xbox 360 and PC, End Game will arrive on Tuesday, March 12. PlayStation 3 users without Battlefield Premium accounts can purchase the content on March 19, while Xbox 360 and PC users will have to wait until March 26 to gain access to the DLC.

Pricing for non-Premium users has not yet been revealed, though previous Battlefield 3 content releases launched for $14.99 (1200 Microsoft Points).

JoystiqBattlefield 3's 'End Game' DLC begins staggered deployment next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3Battlefield-PremiumDICEDLCDownloadable-ContentEAElectronic-ArtsEnd-Gamemicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 01 Mar 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq invites you into the Tactical Intervention beta [Keys are gone!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/joystiq-invites-you-into-the-tactical-intervention-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/joystiq-invites-you-into-the-tactical-intervention-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/joystiq-invites-you-into-the-tactical-intervention-beta/#comments

Update: We're all out of codes!

It's time for you and 5,999 of your closest friends to start getting stoked, because Joystiq is distributing six thousand beta keys for Tactical Intervention - and we're the only place on the web to get them.

Developed by a team helmed by Minh Le - co-creator of Counter-Strike - Tactical Intervention is a free-to-play first-person shooter that features concepts Le always wanted to bring to Counter-Strike. Yeah, you've got all that shooting action between terrorist scum and the heroic CTs, but then you have driving missions, attack dogs, tactical maneuvers, and more.

Joystiq readers with codes can play beginning March 4 through March 8. To use the code, go to the OGPlanet beta registration page, log in or sign up for an OGPlanet account, submit your unique key to gain access. The PC-only client will be available on Monday.

Get your Tactical Intervention beta code

JoystiqJoystiq invites you into the Tactical Intervention beta [Keys are gone!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beta-keysCounter-StrikeFIX-KoreaJoyswagMinh-LeOGPlanetpctactical-interventionFri, 01 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tactical Intervention: Born out of Counter-Strike and insecurity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/tactical-intervention-born-out-of-counter-strike-and-insecurity/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/tactical-intervention-born-out-of-counter-strike-and-insecurity/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/tactical-intervention-born-out-of-counter-strike-and-insecurity/#comments Tactical Intervention Born out of CounterStrike and insecurity"I never really expected it to last this long," Minh Le tells me over video chat. "It" is Counter-Strike, a mod Le helped create alongside Jess Cliffe in the late 1990s. Since the two-man team and its creation was acquired by Valve in 2000, Counter-Strike has continued to expand, with new, standalone versions landing on almost every major video game platform.

Le, known in the mod community as 'Gooseman,' is still surprised by its popularity.

"I started back in 1999, and back then it was just this mod," Le tells me. "It really, really shocks me. Part of the reason I think it has evolved, even to this day and maintained its strength is because of community involvement."

Le hasn't kept track of updates to Counter-Strike - or its subsequent sequels - since his final days at Valve, as he's now busy working on a new project inspired by lessons he learned and goals he wanted to accomplish with the original mod: a new, free-to-play shooter dubbed Tactical Intervention. Counter-Strike, though made popular by its classic bomb mode and no-respawn deathmatch style, was meant to be remembered for other modes that fans never quite gravitated toward, like VIP and Hostage missions. With enhancements to make those modes better than he was able to achieve in Counter-Strike, Tactical Intervention is closer to being unleashed.

Gallery: Tactical Intervention

Continue reading Tactical Intervention: Born out of Counter-Strike and insecurity

JoystiqTactical Intervention: Born out of Counter-Strike and insecurity originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FIX-KoreaMinh-LeOGPlanetpctactical-interventionThu, 28 Feb 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 3 multiplayer goes free-to-play, available today on the PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/uncharted-3-multiplayer-goes-free-to-play-available-today-on-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/uncharted-3-multiplayer-goes-free-to-play-available-today-on-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/uncharted-3-multiplayer-goes-free-to-play-available-today-on-th/#comments
This week, Naughty Dog will try its hand at the free-to-play market by making the multiplayer component of Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception available for all to download.

As a standalone PSN download, the free-to-play version of Uncharted 3's multiplayer introduces a host of microtransactions for players to compile the online version of Uncharted 3 they want to play, with the first 15 levels of competitive multiplayer available for free.

Naughty Dog lead game designer Robert Cogburn told Joystiq that the studio's plan to go free-to-play is an attempt to accomplish two goals: reinvigorate the pool of Uncharted 3 players and test the freemium waters.

Some of the transactions available, according to Cogburn, include raising the level cap to 25 or removing it completely. Cooperative content won't be included in the free-to-play version of Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception, rather the 'Co-op Arena' and 'Adventure' modes have been split into their own separate pieces of premium downloadable content in the new free version.

For game owner completionists, the 'Game of the Year' edition of Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception will be available to purchase digitally, eschewing the franchise's adventure into the world of microtransactions all together.

Gallery: Uncharted 3 (multiplayer)

Continue reading Uncharted 3 multiplayer goes free-to-play, available today on the PSN

JoystiqUncharted 3 multiplayer goes free-to-play, available today on the PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playplaystationps3uncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionTue, 26 Feb 2013 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Uncharted 3 multiplayer going free-to-play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/rumor-uncharted-3-multiplayer-going-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/rumor-uncharted-3-multiplayer-going-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/rumor-uncharted-3-multiplayer-going-free-to-play/#comments It seems the competitive world of Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception is expanding to the realm of free-to-play.

According to a post on the official PlayStation Blog detailing upcoming PSN releases, a heading revealed the multiplayer component of the latest Uncharted title would be free-to-play; information found under the apt heading "Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception Multiplayer (Free to Play)."

No further details were revealed and the section has since been removed from the official PlayStation blog's post. In a year-end post on Naughty Dog's official blog, the company promised "very exciting information about multiplayer" was coming in 2013.

Joystiq has contacted Sony for comment and will update this story as more information becomes available.

JoystiqRumor: Uncharted 3 multiplayer going free-to-play originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F2PFree-to-PlayNaughty-Dogplaystationps3SCEASonyuncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionMon, 25 Feb 2013 02:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation app brings second-screen experience to iOS, Android]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/playstation-app-brings-second-screen-experience-to-ios-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/playstation-app-brings-second-screen-experience-to-ios-android/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/playstation-app-brings-second-screen-experience-to-ios-android/#comments PlayStation app brings secondscreen experience to iOS, AndroidWith a new PlayStation app, Sony plans to extend the PlayStation 4 console experience to a second-screen. Announced for iOS and Android devices, the app will allow players to enhance their gaming experience by accessing information - such as maps for the PS4 title being played - as well as make purchases for their console on the go and "remotely watch other gamers playing on their devices."

Based on its description, the app seems similar in purpose as Microsoft's SmartGlass application; however, Sony's offerings expand further with the addition of updates to its PlayStation Vita. As revealed during its PlayStation 4 reveal event, the Vita will be able to remotely play console games with the use of Gaikai's streaming technology.

Continue reading PlayStation app brings second-screen experience to iOS, Android

JoystiqPlayStation app brings second-screen experience to iOS, Android originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 22:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PlayStation-2013playstation-4PlayStation-AppPS4SonyWed, 20 Feb 2013 22:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony further details PlayStation 4 hardware specs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/sony-further-details-playstation-4-hardware-specs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/sony-further-details-playstation-4-hardware-specs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/sony-further-details-playstation-4-hardware-specs/#comments Though it didn't go into great detail during its reveal event, Sony has sent us a breakdown of the technology that powers its new PlayStation 4 console.

A press release reveals the machine will include an 8-core 64-bit x86 "Jaguar" CPU developed by AMD and a Radeon GPU with the capability of terrorizing televisions with 1.84 TFLOPS of gaming goodness.

PlayStation 4 includes a Blu-ray drive that spins game discs a brisk 6X and 8X for DVDs. Additional specs in the release note the, already revealed, 8GB of unified GDDR5 RAM along with 802.11n WiFi capability, USB 3.0 ports, Bluetooth 2.1 and ports for optical audio, HDMI and even legacy analog AV hook-ups. Though the console will have internal storage, Sony did not detail its size.

Sony's plan is to launch its new PlayStation 4 console this holiday season. No specific date or price was revealed during the reveal event.

Continue reading Sony further details PlayStation 4 hardware specs

JoystiqSony further details PlayStation 4 hardware specs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 21:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationPlayStation-4PS4SonyWed, 20 Feb 2013 21:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Joystiq and Engadget discuss the newly-announced PlayStation 4 [Watch the replay!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/watch-joystiq-and-engadget-discuss-the-newly-announced-playstati/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/watch-joystiq-and-engadget-discuss-the-newly-announced-playstati/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/watch-joystiq-and-engadget-discuss-the-newly-announced-playstati/#comments

Update: The live stream of the PlayStation 4 post-game show is over. Watch the replay above.

Well, it's official Sony has introduced the gaming world to its next home console, unsurprisingly called the PlayStation 4.

Braving the cold, New York City air, Joystiq boss Ludwig Kietzmann and Engadget overlord Tim Stevens are taking to the streets once again to discuss what they think of the next-generation Sony console.

JoystiqWatch Joystiq and Engadget discuss the newly-announced PlayStation 4 [Watch the replay!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 20:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps3Wed, 20 Feb 2013 20:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom reveals next-gen 'Panta Rhei' engine, teases new IP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/capcom-reveals-next-gen-panta-rhei-engine/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/capcom-reveals-next-gen-panta-rhei-engine/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/capcom-reveals-next-gen-panta-rhei-engine/#comments Capcom reveals nextgen 'Panta Rhei' engine to harness the power of PS4Taking the stage during the PlayStation 4 reveal event, the energetic Capcom producer Yoshinori Ono revealed a new engine meant to power the publisher's slew of next-generation of console titles.

Code named 'Panta Rhei,' Ono says that the technology is "the next evolutionary step of our MT Framework," which powers many of Capcom's current-generation software.

Capcom revealed the power of its new engine in a video that teased one of the new intellectual properties it plans to bring to the next generation; a game featuring plenty of dragons and fire. The game, which has the working title of Deep Down, is a medieval fantasy RPG.

JoystiqCapcom reveals next-gen 'Panta Rhei' engine, teases new IP originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 19:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Capcomdeep-downpanta-rheiplaystationPlayStation-2013PlayStation-4ps3Wed, 20 Feb 2013 19:36:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 4 will continue to bring streaming media to homes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/playstation-4-will-continue-to-bring-streaming-media-to-homes/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/playstation-4-will-continue-to-bring-streaming-media-to-homes/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/playstation-4-will-continue-to-bring-streaming-media-to-homes/#comments Despite inviting a host of new video game experiences, the PlayStation 4 will retain the ability to bring other forms of media into a gamer's home.

During the PlayStation 4 reveal event, Gaikai boss Dave Perry confirmed that the PS4 will feature streaming content from Hulu Plus, Crunchyroll, Crackle, Netflix, Vudu, Epix, Facebook, Music Unlimited, Video Unlimited, and Amazon Instant.

We will update the post with other providers as that information is made available.

Sony's PlayStation event in New York City kicked off at 6PM EST (3PM PST, 11PM GMT) today. Sony kept a tight lid on any specific game or console announcements prior to the show, though popular speculation suggested it would reveal the next PlayStation home console.

JoystiqPlayStation 4 will continue to bring streaming media to homes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PlayStation-2013PlayStation-4PS4Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq and Engadget do it live before Sony's PlayStation event [Watch the replay]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/joystiq-and-engadget-do-it-live-before-sonys-playstation-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/joystiq-and-engadget-do-it-live-before-sonys-playstation-event/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/20/joystiq-and-engadget-do-it-live-before-sonys-playstation-event/#comments

Update: The live chat is over, but you can watch a replay of the discussion in the video embedded above.

Rumors and expectations are swirling around Sony's much-hyped New York City event tonight, and Joystiq and Engadget have come together to discuss what we may see out of the briefing.

Will we get to see the next generation of PlayStation, or is this just a dirty trick to get us all to pay attention to the new line of Xperia phones?

You won't have to wait long to find out. Watch the live-streaming pre-show chat after the break and stay tuned for another post-game report after the event.

JoystiqJoystiq and Engadget do it live before Sony's PlayStation event [Watch the replay] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2013 16:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps3Wed, 20 Feb 2013 16:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Recapping Bungie's 'Destiny' reveal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/17/recapping-bungies-destiny-reveal/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/17/recapping-bungies-destiny-reveal/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/17/recapping-bungies-destiny-reveal/#comments
After a day of Bungie-related content, we present you with an easy-to-use recap of today's Destiny reveal. As an added bonus, we've developed a lengthy video feature - as seen above - with associate editor David Hinkle and myself discussing the reveal and answering as many questions as we could. If you prefer to watch your previews, Joystiq has you covered.

JoystiqRecapping Bungie's 'Destiny' reveal originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionBungiedestinymicrosoftplaystationps3xboxSun, 17 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST